The Caucus released the following joint statement in response to a series of mayoral appointments of individuals with anti-gay histories

New York City went to the polls in November to elect a government among the most diverse in history. The people have spoken: inclusion, dignity, and justice are clear shared values. Unfortunately, a number of Mayor Adams’ new appointments are steps in the opposite direction. 

Among these is Erick Salgado, who was picked to be the assistant commissioner of outreach at the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. Salgado has marched with former State Senator Rev. Ruben Diaz Sr. in a rally against marriage equality, and was endorsed in his mayoral run by the homophobic National Organization of Marriage. 

Perhaps most egregious is the consideration of former City Councilmember Fernando Cabrera for any role in our government. Cabrera has a history of homophobic positions and remarks. However he took his bigotry much further, to a degree that is both painful and shocking, especially in the 21st Century. Following Uganda’s passage of the infamous law imposing life sentences in prison for homosexuality, Mr. Cabrera traveled to the country to praise the law, as well as the country’s other ferociously bigotted policies. The man is a bigot; his use of his platform to promote his views has been dangerous. His appointment to a taxpayer-funded position is an affront to us as individuals and as a caucus, and would be an insult to LGBTQ+ New Yorkers. 

We, the LGBTQ Caucus, stand firmly against these appointments. Our democratic government should represent the people, and its officers should be individuals on whom all New Yorkers can rely. Our city is home to plenty of qualified potential candidates for these roles. We call on the Mayor to make selections with positions and histories we can all support.

We welcome an opportunity to discuss our concerns and alternative appointments for these roles in the new administration. 

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